Media Release: All in a good Claus!

AFTER a week of sheltering from the snow, around 800 ‘Santas’ came together in Edinburgh today, Sunday 12 December, to take part in The Great Scottish Santa Run in West Princes Street Gardens.

The popular event attracted people of all ages who dressed as Santas to run, walk and toddle around the 1.5 km circuit, turning the gardens into a sea of red and white.

The Santa Run, an annual highlight of Edinburgh’s Christmas, is held to raise funds for the children’s charity, When You Wish Upon a Star, which specialises in making dreams come true for children with life threatening illnesses.

This year, the run was led by Edinburgh’s marathon man, Mark Cooper, who ran 50 marathons in 56 days for charity earlier this year.

Commenting on the run, Nickie Gott, managing director of event producer, She’s Gott It!, said: “This is a fantastic event that all the family, young and old, can take part in.

“There’s a wonderful atmosphere throughout and it’s amazing to see so many people come together in the name of charity.

“It’s a fantastic spectacle, whether you’re watching or participating, and we are absolutely thrilled with the turnout of Santas and elves today.”

Margaret Rowarth, Scottish appeals manager for When You Wish Upon A Star, commended the runners and organisers alike: “This event has a magical atmosphere and people are always so charitable.

“The support has been incredible and all money raised will go to grant the wishes of Scottish Children in 2011.

“Sincere thanks are due not only to the City of Edinburgh Council and Edinburgh’s Christmas producers, She’s Gott It!, but also to the dozens of volunteers from Telford College who helped on the day.”